Japan's Mayor Takashi Saimi was insulted by the Australian Prime Minister after sending a gift? Japan's response has been revealed.

According to reports from Australian media such as SBS, a statement made by Australian Prime Minister Albanese in early July was criticized for insulting Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae. On August 10, Australian media disclosed the Japanese government's formal response to the matter: downplaying it. The report stated that during a podcast, Albanese talked about the high-end muskmelon that Takaichi had gifted him during her visit to Australia in May. Host Niki Osborne asked how the fruit had passed through Australian customs, questioning, Did she smuggle it in? Albanese answered, I don't know, and mentioned that Takaichi brought two muskmelons, while mimicking the host's hand gesture in front of his chest... Some interpreted Albanese's body language and comments as crude jokes. Angus Taylor, leader of the opposition Liberal Party, called for Albanese to apologize, stating, These comments are insulting, and the Prime Minister should apologize personally. Liberal Party deputy leader Jane Hume also criticized the remarks as crude and inappropriate. Albanese's spokesperson stated that the interpretation of the Prime Ministers gesture by outsiders was incorrect. According to a report by news.com.au, former Japanese Ambassador to Australia Yamaguchi Shingo criticized Albanese, stating that this is not a political issue but a matter of etiquette, diplomatic decorum, and mutual respect. He wrote, I believe that whether in Australia, Japan, or anywhere else, you should not make jokes about gifts that friends have carefully prepared and kindly offered. Yamaguchi also noted that Crown muskmelons are precious fruits from Japan, meticulously cultivated in special greenhouses.